Grand Tour of Italy

Italy is a country like no other. Its cities are ancient and romantic. Its land seamlessly blends from dramatic mountains to rolling green hills and its lengthy coast holds exceptional beauty and glamour.

The Grand Tour of Italy is an unforgettable introduction to the rich variety, history and culture the 'bel paese' has to offer. Witness the remains of the Roman Empire in Rome and revel in the remarkable creations of the Renaissance in Venice and Florence. Immerse yourself in the arts in Verona and indulge in Tuscany’s love and passion for its culinary heritage. End your stay on the Amalfi Coast, with effortless glamour and reflecting on your newfound love for la dolce vita.

Your adventure begins on board a once-in-a-lifetime rail journey, the Orient-Express. From London, trundle through the Swiss Alps and Italian Dolomites to arrive in the lagoon city of Venice, arguably the most romantic city in the world. Take in its grand palazzos, piazze and hidden courtyards which have inspired many of the world’s greatest artists and writers. Delve into the ancient art of bookbinding or mask-making or, take to the hills to experience the hairpin bends of Passo Pordoi in your Ferrari.

Next stop Verona, forever known as the fictional home of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet with their famous balcony and the city’s open air operas taking center stage. Head into the lakes and glide across beautiful Lake Como. Explore the intimate lakeside surroundings of Tremezzo and its charming neighboring towns, and villages in a majestic Alpine setting. Look the part as you explore the style capital of the world, Milan. Seek out the rooftop terraces of its Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci's iconic 'Last Supper' before relaxing into a classic Italian aperitivo on his Naviglio Grande.

Continue the gastronomic theme as you venture south, stopping to savor the granular nuttiness of Parmigiano-Reggiano before snaking through the iconic rolling landscape and grand country homes of Tuscany. Arrive at the medieval city of Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance, and famed for its masterpieces, architecture and Bistecca. Hunt for truffles and drink fine red wine deep in the Chianti countryside. Make your pilgrimage to the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome to explore the Vatican, its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Imagine the roars and the grand spectacle at the Colosseum or witness the early Christian heritage of the city beneath its streets in the Catacombs of St. Callixtus.

End your trip by heading south to be greeted by the sunshine and panoramic coastal views of Sorrento. Discover the archaeological sites at the buried Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum before taking to the sea to explore the hidden inlets and caves of the glamorous isle of Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Here, in the bay of Naples, let time stand still. Relax into a cobbled garden courtyard and breathe in la dolce vita.

At a glance

• The Grand Tour of Italy is an unforgettable introduction to the rich variety, history and culture the 'bel paese' has to offer.
• Step back in time on the Orient Express and journey from London to Venice, through picturesque Alpine scenery before taking to the road to travel through the extraordinary landscapes through the heart of Italy.
• Experience the grand palazzi, piazze and maze of canals in the lagoon city, take a moment to reflect in the reverence of the Sistine Chapel or marvel at the masterpiece that is Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.
• No trip to Italy is complete without a guided tour through the storied ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• Taste Italy’s passion for food inspired by family, home-grown produce, and la bella vita.
• Stay in Italy’s grand city hotels, historic countryside villas and the most intimate, boutique coastal retreats.

All of our itineraries are designed around you, so please remember that this is just a suggestion which can be tailored into something completely bespoke to you and your preferences.

Call us today on +44 (0)1646 405060 to start planning your holiday.